Biography
Val Vigoda doesn’t just speak - she ignites. A world-class performer, award-winning musical theatre creator, and rockstar violinist/singer with Disney hits and Off-Broadway acclaim, Val fuses music and message into powerful keynote concerts that move audiences from passive listening to active transformation. She’s a Performance Catalyst for teams navigating change, challenge, or burnout—showing them how to face uncertainty with resilience, creativity, and joy. With soaring vocals, spellbinding electric violin, cutting-edge looping tech, and raw vulnerability, Val doesn’t just talk about bravery—she embodies it, live, in real time. Whether she’s headlining a corporate summit, playing an intimate VIP concert, or lifting a team out of overwhelm, Val turns every stage into a radical energy shift—where fear loosens its grip, connection ignites, and even the most skeptical audiences walk out recharged, inspired, and ready to rise. She’s shared the spotlight with superstars like Cyndi Lauper, Michelle Obama, and Sting. But her truest magic lies in helping people rediscover their own spotlight—and use it to lead, innovate, and light up the room. A disciplined former U.S. Army lieutenant turned rebel violinist, Val brings both elite professionalism and disarming playfulness. Her storytelling draws you in, her talent dazzles, and her message lands with unforgettable force. If you’re looking for a speaker who makes you look brilliant, transforms your audience, and leaves everyone buzzing long after the final note—Val Vigoda is your next standing ovation. Val is an award-winning musical theatre artist, electric violinist/singer turned rebel rocker, and prolific Disney songwriter. Before becoming a genre-bending performer, Val was commissioned as a lieutenant in the US Army—a surprising origin story that shaped her signature blend of precision and wild creativity. She’s toured the world with global legends including Joe Jackson, Cyndi Lauper, and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and opened for luminaries such as Michelle Obama, Magic Johnson, and Sting. A creative force on and off the stage, Val has co-written and starred in multiple acclaimed musicals produced in New York and around the world. She founded the cult-favorite indie band GrooveLily, and her songwriting credits span Off-Broadway, regional theatres, and Disney—where she helped reimagine Toy Story as a stage musical and co-wrote over 20 original songs for parks and films. Her work has earned accolades including the ASCAP Richard Rodgers Award, the Off-Broadway Alliance Award, and the Jonathan Larson Award (named for the creator of RENT). An honors graduate of Princeton, Val is also a passionate educator who has taught masterclasses at Stanford, Berklee College of Music, Emerson, and the University of Washington. Whether writing musicals or delivering standing-ovation keynotes, her audacious mission remains the same: to use story and song to spark resilience, connection, and joy—and help people come vividly alive. She lives in Los Angeles with her son Mose, with whom she makes epic—and truly terrible—rap battles while washing dishes.
Speech Topics
Overcome Fear with Optimism, Resilience and Courage
It’s been said that the human brain is like Velcro for negative experiences and Teflon for positive ones; and so our natural state is easily skewed toward pessimism, fearfulness and an abundance of caution. But great achievements are fueled by bravery, optimism and—sometimes counterintuitively—playfulness. Now more than ever we need to cultivate these qualities; and in this compelling presentation Val takes to the stage with her six-string electric violin and shows us how. An effervescent collection of adventures from her own life (as an awkward student, rebellious daughter, struggling Army cadet, nervous backup musician to rock stars, self-critical theater artist…), in which crisis forced her to face repeatedly into her greatest fears while also learning to let go of perfectionism and be more playful, inspires people to rise to their own challenges and do the same.
Lead with Confidence into the Unknown: Creativity as a Tool for Optimism
Confidence, leadership, playfulness, creativity—these are all skills that improve with practice (not simply traits that you either have or you don’t). Val takes audiences on a music-filled journey toward more creative leadership, illustrated by bold stories from her own life as well as astounding lessons from one of the greatest leaders in history, Ernest Shackleton. This empowering presentation, with its emphasis on mindset, story and expression to uplift and connect people, is perfect for organizations looking to ignite innovation and teamwork and cultivate truly creative, optimistic leaders.
Creative Resilience: Fueling Courage, Connection, and Innovation Through Uncertainty
Faced with chaos, most leaders either go rigid—or unravel. This keynote offers a third path: creative resilience. Through powerful storytelling, unexpected humor, and riveting live music, Val Vigoda doesn’t just talk about bouncing back—she shows your audience how to rise forward. In real time. With courage, connection, and an electric violin. It’s part rock concert, part masterclass—and 100% a wake-up call to lead from presence, not panic. What They’ll Learn: • How to transform overwhelm into creative energy • Why resilient leadership requires flexibility, not just strength • Tactics for building connection and trust during high-stakes moments • A new model for leading with presence, courage, and authentic expression Perfect For: Leaders and teams navigating rapid change—especially those burned out, overwhelmed, or craving more creativity in how they lead. From CEOs to rising stars, this keynote speaks to anyone ready to lead boldly through uncertainty.
The Human Edge in an AI World: How Presence, Creativity, and Soul Beat the Algorithm
AI can write for you, think for you, even learn from you—but it can’t be you. In a world racing toward automation, the leaders who will thrive aren’t the most efficient—they’re the most human. Val Vigoda makes the case that creativity, empathy, presence, and meaning-making aren’t soft skills anymore. They’re survival skills. Through live music, powerful storytelling, and future-facing insight, Val shows how emotional intelligence and creative leadership are no longer “nice to have”—they’re your unignorable edge. It’s not just a keynote. It’s a reset for how we lead in the age of machines. What They’ll Learn: • Why human-centered leadership is your competitive advantage • How to activate creativity, presence, and emotional intelligence under pressure • Tools to lead with vision (not fear) in a tech-dominated era • A new story about what it means to thrive through disruption Perfect For: Leadership teams, innovation summits, and future-forward organizations navigating disruption who want to stay relevant—without losing their humanity.
Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Valerie Vigoda's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Valerie Vigoda's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.What is Valerie Vigoda's speaking fee?
The typical range for Valerie Vigoda's speaking fee is $10,000–$20,000. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for Valerie Vigoda to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.How do I book Valerie Vigoda for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Valerie Vigoda's availability, fees, and any unique requirements (we can also help negotiate fees and terms); submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker, with the details used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts; coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions; and confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors: the speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry; their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages; past client testimonials, reviews, or references; and the speaker's availability and fee within your budget.What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help us improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.Why book Valerie Vigoda through Key Speakers?
We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker — from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event.
Speakers Like Valerie Vigoda
Princess Sarah Culberson
Princess Sarah Culberson is an African princess who discovered her royal heritage in Sierra Leone in her late twenties. She is the host of the "Modern Royalty" podcast, where she delves into the lives and insights of individuals who are redefining what it means to be royalty in today's world. Her journey has captivated audiences worldwide, garnering features on CNN, GMA, and BBC, among other prominent media outlets. Her compelling story is the inspiration behind her coauthored book, "A Princess Found," which Disney has acquired to adapt into a major motion picture. With over 15 years of experience in education, Princess Sarah has been invited to speak globally at NASA, Wells Fargo, Princeton University, and many others. Her expertise has led her to roles including president and co-founder of Sierra Leone Rising, a nonprofit organization, and a businesswoman in the entertainment industry, with her work reaching global audiences. Sierra Leone Rising supports initiatives such as keeping young girls in school, constructing wells for clean drinking water, and promoting cultural understanding through coding. Her contributions have been recognized with the Trumpet Impact Award, highlighting her efforts to foster a culture of belonging on a large scale.
Fee Range: $17,000–$20,000
Travels From: CA
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